Beyond Ice Cream: Frozen Treats From Around the Globe

Now that the weather is warmer, we’re craving frozen treats constantly. But cooling goodies don’t have to stop at ice cream and popsicles—see what types of sweet, icy treats people consume around the world, from locales as far-flung as the Philippines, New Orleans, and Germany.

Ice Kacang

The Penang version of shaved ice often comes with eclectic toppings, such as sweet corn, palm nuts and grass jelly.

Bon Appetit / Alamy

Kulfi

India’s post-meal indulgence shares the same sweet creaminess as American ice cream, but tends to be denser—even a bit chewy owing to the rice or corn flour added to it. Sample mango or pistachio for something familiar, but you can also find cardamom and saffron iterations if you want to dabble in something more offbeat.

Bon Appetit / Alamy

Halo-Halo

Shaved ice, condensed milk and fruit form the base of this multilayered treat, which translates to “mix-mix.” Chickpeas, kidney beans, or purple yams add a slightly savory element.

TongRo Images / Alamy

Patbingsu

In its most basic form, Korea’s rendition of shaved ice gets a simple topping of sweetened adzuki beans. Fancier spins often douse the creation with ice cream, chopped fruit or condensed milk.

JJM Stock Photography/Travel / Alamy

Raspao

Fans of this Latin American specialty top the shaved ice with vibrant fruit syrups, occasionally sweetening the final product further with condensed milk, malted milk, or honey.

Bon Appetit / Alamy

Spaghetti-Eis

Yep, you read that right: The Germans have put their own sweet spin on the Italian staple. Invented in the 1960s, this dessert begins with vanilla ice cream pressed through a potato ricer. The “noodles” then get topped with strawberry jam, which serves as “marinara,” and coconut flakes or white chocolate shavings (“cheese”).

Eoghan Hanrahan / Alamy

Sno-Balls

Beignets may get the lion’s share of attention when it comes to N’Awlins desserts, but in the balmy heat of summer, we doubt you’ll be reaching for one of those fried bad boys. Instead, opt for one of these syrup-doused, super-fine shaved ice confections, which you can snag in such flavors as nectar cream, Satsuma, and honey-lavender.